Russell picks UAB bowling

Taylor Russell had a tough spring season with injuries but when she visited UAB, she knew it was all worth it.

Senior bowler Taylor Russell signed with the University of Alabama in Birmingham Thursday. The 4-time MHSAA Class II state champion is ready to make an immediate impact with the Blazers.

“Tupelo has given me the chance to participate in a great team atmosphere since 7th grade,” said Russell. “I am ready to see what bowling collegiately has in store for me.”

Russell’s high career game is 290 and her high school average is 207. She was awarded the Pop Star Award for Mississippi’s best high school girls bowler from 2010-2013. She also won the Junior Gold Championship in the U15 girls division in 2013 and 5th in 2012.

UAB started its Division I bowling program in 2011. They finished 2013-2014 with a record of 41-55. Earlier this year, UAB president Ray Watts cut bowling, rifle, and football to even out the men’s and women’s teams. Six months later, they were all reinstated. Rifle and bowling will begin competition in 2016 while football will be 2017.